waltz

A New Year’s Eve tradition continues with the New York Philharmonic, led by Music Director Jaap van Zweden, welcoming opera great Renée Fleming. From the great waltzes and polkas of Johann Strauss II to musical pearls from composers Stephen Sondheim and Kander and Ebb, the Philharmonic conjures the splendor of a night at the ball.

GREAT PERFORMANCES continues the cherished tradition of ringing in the new year with the Vienna Philharmonic at the opulent Musikverein, under the baton of Italian conductor and Chicago Symphony Orchestra Music Director Riccardo Muti, featuring favorite Strauss Family waltzes accompanied by the dancing of the Vienna State Ballet. This year’s program welcomes new host Hugh Bonneville, best known as Robert, Earl of Grantham, in Masterpiece’s global phenomenon, Downton Abbey.

The world-renowned ball season in Vienna, Austria emulates the ostentatious lifestyle of the 18th & 19th century imperial family, the House of Habsburg, with its traditional Viennese waltzes. Mickela dons a gown in celebration while also learning the knee-slapping traditions of Schuhplattler in the hills of Steiermark!

From his humble beginnings as a street musician to performing around the world, the American guitarist Benise takes viewers on an international journey of musical genres including salsa, flamenco, tango, waltz, samba and more. Known for his virtuoso “flamenco nouveau” style, Benise presents his Emmy-winning multi-cultural stage show where classic rock anthems are fused with fiery guitar and dance. Included in the lineup are songs from rock icons like Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, The Eagles and others.

PBS continues the cherished tradition of ringing in the New Year at the opulent Musikverein with the Vienna Philharmonic under the baton of guest conductor Zubin Mehta, and featuring everyone’s favorite Strauss Family waltzes accompanied by the beautiful dancing of the Vienna City Ballet. In addition to the Musikverein concert setting, the broadcast features a picturesque range of Vienna landmarks. Stage and screen legend Julie Andrews returns as host.